Break the (Beauty) Habits

We all are guilty of following a pre-set beauty routine (or at least one of the following routines); however, if you can disentangle yourself from these beauty ruts by advancing your go-to routines, you will ultimately reinvent yourself. FLARE helps us to discover this renewed version of ourselves by experimenting with make-up: new techniques, methods, colours, applicators, products: all of these little (but huge) things can help you experiment with different beauty styles to expose yourself to something new. Get this: you might actually like it! (And we are not expecting you to go to unrealistic extremes here, just subtle changes). In this instance, change is good.

Beauty Routine #1: You use the same eyeliner everyday (and night).
Change It: Try a kohl eye pencil! Not only is it much easier to use than liquid liners (with a softer effect), if gives a more diffused, sultry and smokey look. Apply the liner along your lashline and smudge it with a sponge/applicator.
Beauty Muse Pick: Sephora Collection Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner ($12, sephora.com): comes in a rainbow of colours with a smudge-tip for easy smudging and blending.

Beauty Routine #2: You've worn the same lipstick since 1999 (and still have back-up in your make-up bag, "just in case").
Change It: We know not everyone has the confidence or even likeability to dark lips to just intensify the colour and go on with their day. Instead, why not try different shades that are within the same colour family as your favourite lipstick? (If you like blue-based reds, try a brown-based or orange-based red). Also, try to change up the consistency of the lipstick: move from sheer to matte.
Beauty Muse Pick: Chanel Rouge Coco Hydrating Lip Creme Lip Colour ($30, chanel.com)

Beauty Routine #3: You are addicted to purples because you've read it enhances green eyes and you refuse swipe your lids with anything else because "purple is for green eyes and that is that".
Change It: Although purple does enhance green eyes, maybe try a different shade of the colour: loving lavender? Try a plum. Furthermore, try a new application technique: cover your lids in an earth-tone shadow, and line your lash lines (top and bottom) with the purple you know and love. This will not only enhance your eyes, but offer an updated version of eyeliner. Also, burnt reds totally intensify green lids! Experiment with colour, you may like it.
Beauty Muse Picks: Make Up Forever Eye Shadow in Plum 39 ($19, sephora.com); MAC Eyeshadow in Coppering ($14.50, maccosmetics.ca) 

Beauty Routine #4: You apply concealer, foundation and powder to your face daily no matter where you are going or what you are doing .
Change it: While this process does have amazing results, it is not always necessary. A great new trend in make-up is tinted moisturizer! They offer coverage, while often having a spf, leaving your skin dewy and healthy looking all day long. Also, opt for a cream-based blush or a cheek stain to bring some healthy glow back into your skin. Remember: the trio is not always necessary.
Beauty Muse Picks: Laura Mercier Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer ($42, sephora.com); Josie Maran Cream Blush ($22, sephora.com)